WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE:
The time from when a patient leaves the operating room until he or she is discharged from the facility typically ranges from 1 to 2 hours.

After surgery, adult patients are taken to the recovery room. From there, they will be prepared for discharge. A family member or friend may sit with you as you are prepared for discharge.

The average time for a child under the age of 12 to recover from surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on the procedure. Parents and legal guardians are typically reunited with their children as soon as possible after surgery.

For both adult and pediatric patients, your nurse will provide personal attention and information.

WHAT TO DO FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS:
Let your responsible adult caregiver take care of you. You may feel fine, but this is not the time to pull weeds or make important decisions. Sit, relax, and allow yourself to rest and recover.

Follow any special instructions your surgeon or nurse gave you.

Call your surgeon if you have unusual symptoms or changes in your condition that you did not expect.

WHAT NOT TO DO FOR THE FIRST 24 HOURS AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE:
Anesthesia can linger in your system for a day or more. You may feel fine, yet not have complete command of your abilities. It is very important that you: